Sir Martin Archer Shee, P.R.A.

W. Jerdan, National Portrait Gallery of Illustrious and Eminent Personages of the Nineteenth Century, vol. III, London 1832, unpaginated, reproduced after the engraving (as by Lawrence);
R. S. Gower, Sir Thomas Lawrence P.R.A., London 1900, p. 104 (as by Lawrence);
W. Armstrong, Lawrence, London 1913, p. 108 (as by Shee).

The painting is lighter in tone than the catalogue illustration suggests, which means that details of the gentleman’s outfit and the red curtain to the right are more visible that one might expect from the illustration. The canvas has been relined. There is minor infilling of craquelure throughout. These retouchings are visible to the naked eye, as is a small area of restoration (1 by 1cm) covering a small loss in the centre of the man’s right breast, and some dark strengthenings in the collar of the gentleman’s coat. There is a small loss in the centre lower edge. There are some minor scattered losses, surface scratches and frame abrasion. There is a dirty yellow varnish, the picture would benefit from a professional clean. This lot is offered in a gold frame in fair condition.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

ENGRAVED:
By S. Freeman, in lithograph, 1831 (as by Lawrence).